Weather in Costa Rica

The weather in Costa Rica is characterised by a tropical and subtropical climate. Costa Rica is divided in half by an alpine spine through the middle of the country. The Pacific side has dry forests, while the Caribbean side has wet, humid rainforests. As with the country's natural regions, the year is divided into two: a rainy season and a dry season.

The rainy season lasts from May to November. Expect plenty of rain, especially when there is a hurricane somewhere else in the Caribbean. The most popular weather season in Costa Rica is the dry season, which lasts from December to April.

Throughout both seasons, there is little variation in coastal temperatures, with most days being somewhere between 77°F (25°C) and 86°F (30°C). The mountainous areas in the country's centre are significantly colder than this because of their high altitude.

Unlike many other countries on the Caribbean Sea, Costa Rica is at little risk of hurricanes. Earthquakes and volcanic activity are more pressing environmental hazards and, while rare, have resulted in fatalities in the past. Expats should therefore make sure they are up-to-date and well-informed about the risk of natural disasters in Costa Rica.